On January 5, 2016, Tavaris Fullington, a 29-year-old African American male, was tragically killed in a shooting incident in Opa-locka, Florida. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. outside a convenience store located near 2100 Lincoln Avenue. According to reports, Tavaris was standing outside the store when a car pulled up, and someone inside the vehicle opened fire, hitting him and another man. Tavaris, who was married and the father of a 3-year-old girl, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses and family members recounted that Tavaris was begging for his life before he was shot.
The second victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was critically injured and airlifted to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Center, where he underwent surgery. He was listed in critical condition following the incident.
The Miami-Dade Police Department launched an investigation into the shooting, but as of the latest reports, no arrests have been made. Detectives have been reviewing surveillance footage from the convenience store in hopes of identifying the shooter. The community has been urged to come forward with any information that could assist in solving the case. Local leaders, including Pastor Eric Readon, have emphasized the need to break the "no-snitching" culture to bring justice for Tavaris and prevent future tragedies.
Tavaris' death has left his family devastated. His father, who had a close relationship with him, was particularly heartbroken, recalling how Tavaris had followed him everywhere as a child. The family has expressed their grief and confusion over why such a senseless act of violence occurred.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the lack of leads and arrests has been a source of frustration for both the family and the community. The case remains open, with authorities continuing to seek any information that could lead to the apprehension of those responsible for Tavaris Fullington's death.
